The present review traces the historical trajectory of special educational needs and disabilities, depicting the changing attitudes towards children with disabilities over time. The tracing of the history presents how special educational needs evolved and was broadened instead of categorization and labelling. The meaning and nature of special education is reviewed with concrete examples. The concept of special education from mild to severe, transitory to permanent and specific to global are presented. Finally, how special education encompasses professionals, curriculum, resources with environmental and educational modifications are provided.