[go] back a long way

to have a long history or past relationship with someone or something

The origin of the idiom "go back a long way" is rooted in the literal sense of physical distance and time. The idea of going back in time or retracing one's steps has long been associated with the concept of history and personal relationships. The phrase can also be used to emphasize the historical context of a particular event, institution, or tradition

The company and its suppliers go back a long way, with a history of collaboration.
The two nations went back a long way, with a history of diplomatic relations.
John and Mary go back a long way.They have been friends since they were children.
My car and I go back a long way; it's been a reliable companion for over a decade.
This book and I go back a long way; I've had it since my college days, and it's traveled with me through different phases of life.

to have been present for a long time, as in conflicts or business

The origin and history of the idiom "go back a long way" are unclear, but it is likely that it developed from the idea of a physical distance that people have traveled together over time. The phrase has been in use since at least the early 19th century and was originally used to refer to journeys or expeditions that had taken a long time to complete. Over time, the phrase began to be used more figuratively to describe the length of time that people had known each other or had been associated with each other in some way.

The traditions of this small town go back a long way, with the annual festival tracing its roots to a century-old celebration.
The family-owned business goes back a long way, with the current owner being the fourth generation to run it.
The historic building goes back a long way, serving as a landmark in the city for generations.
The cultural traditions of the indigenous community go back a long way, preserving their heritage for centuries.