Both the French and the industrial revolution had an enormous impact on the beginning of sociology as a social science. A lot of people began to question those in authority. The French Revolution in 1789 was said to be more ideological, which caused a considerable shift in the class system as the aristocrats lost their wealth and power while those at the bottom of the class moved up in stature.
Many early sociologists tried to explain the relevance and function of these new roles and structures, and why new laws were suddenly being put into practice. The Industrial Revolution soon followed in the 1800s, and it played an integral part in establishing sociology. It changed the way society, as a whole, conducted itself.
There was a significant decrease in agricultural work as society became industrialized. Large amounts of people moved to the cities to work long hours in factories at a low wage. New groups appeared that derived power and control over the economy, which led to them becoming the dominant group. People wanted answers concerning the different groups and why technology was taking away their jobs.