[Objective] This paper aimed to show present research on situation of rainfall erosivity, and to discuss the development of rainfall erosivity and to provide foundation for accurate calculation and prediction of regional rainfall erosivity.[Methods] The research progress of rainfall erosivity was analyzed by reviewing related literatures in different aspects.[Results] Rainfall erosivity index and erosive rainfall standard were summarized. In addition, the research progresses for simple calculation models of rainfall erosivity and dynamic change of rainfall erosivity were reviewed. The limitations of rainfall erosivity research were also analyzed and some suggestions were put forward.[Conclusion] Rainfall erosivity index, and dynamic change of rainfall erosivity have been made some achievements. Erosive rainfall standard, and simple calculation models of rainfall erosivity, influencing factors of rainfall erosivity research need to be strengthened in the future.