Bulloch County was created from Bryan and Screven Counties by Act. of the general assembly Feb. 8, 1796. (Ga. Laws 1796, p. 14). Originally, it contained part of Evans, Candler, Emanuel and Jenkins Counties.

Georgia's 21st county was named for Archibald Bulloch (1730-1777), Revolutionary leader, elected Pres. of the Executive Council of Georgia, Jan. 20, 1776. He was first Provisional Governor of Georgia, Jan. 22, 1776 until his death, Feb. 22, 1777.

 Portions of Bulloch County were used to create Jenkins County (1905), Candler County (1914), and Evans County (1914). The county has four incorporated municipalities: Statesboro, Brooklet, Portal, and Register. The largest, and county seat, is Statesboro. Statesboro was created in 1866 and is the only city by that name in the United States.

First County officers were commissioned March 25, 1796, as follows: Charles McCall, Jr., Sheriff; Andrew E. Wells, Clerk Sup. Ct.; George Elliott, Clerk Inf. Ct.; Francis Wells, Register of Probate; James Bird, Surveyor; Garrott Williams, Coroner.

In addition to the county's four incorporated municipalities, a number of unincorporated communities like Nevils, Stilson, and Clito provide a glimpse into the county's history. One of the most interesting community names in Georgia is the Bulloch County community of Hopeulikit, named for a famous dance hall of the big band swing era. Festivals and special events held in the county include the Brooklet Peanut Festival, Portal's Cat Face Turpentine Festival, the Bulloch County Azalea Festival, Christmas in Statesboro, and the MusicFest.