Wuxia literature traces its origins to ancient Chinese storytelling traditions, particularly during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Early iterations of wuxia stories can be found in classical Chinese novels such as Water Margin (Shuihu Zhuan), attributed to Shi Nai'an from the 14th century, which introduced narratives centered around bands of heroic outlaws who embodied ideals of justice and rebellion.

The genre matured significantly in the early 20th century, greatly influenced by serialized novels and periodicals which captivated urban readers with thrilling tales of heroism and martial arts mastery. Renowned writers like Jin Yong (Louis Cha), Gu Long, and Liang Yusheng played pivotal roles in popularizing wuxia, turning serialized stories into literary masterpieces celebrated across East Asia.

Jin Yong’s works, including classics such as The Legend of the Condor Heroes and The Heaven Sword and Dragon Saber, have become defining texts of the genre, blending complex characters, historical intricacy, and philosophical depth. Similarly, Gu Long introduced modern narrative techniques and psychological complexity into wuxia through novels like The Sentimental Swordsman and Chu Liuxiang series.

The political and cultural landscape significantly influenced wuxia's evolution. During turbulent periods such as China's republican era and later under socialist governance, wuxia offered both an escape and subtle commentary on issues of morality, justice, and authority. However, the genre faced restrictions during the Cultural Revolution, only to experience a revival in subsequent decades.

In contemporary culture, wuxia remains influential across various media. Films by directors like Zhang Yimou (Hero) and Ang Lee (Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon) introduced wuxia to global audiences, showcasing the genre's visual splendor, martial choreography, and philosophical richness. Television adaptations, comics (manhua), and video games have further cemented wuxia’s popularity, blending tradition with modern storytelling techniques to captivate new generations.

Today, wuxia continues to evolve, increasingly incorporating diverse perspectives, contemporary themes, and innovative storytelling methods. Yet, its core principles of martial virtue, honor-bound heroes, and the eternal quest for justice remain timelessly appealing.