Origins of Rural Sociology

Rural sociology is a relatively new branch of sociology that developed as a response to the social and economic problems of rural communities. It emerged primarily in the United States in the early 20th century, influenced by agricultural issues, migration, and rural development policies.

1. Early Background (19th Century)

  • The Industrial Revolution led to mass migration from rural to urban areas.
  • Rural areas faced poverty, exploitation by landlords, and lack of development.
  • Sociologists began studying rural life to address these challenges.

2. Development of Rural Sociology in the USA

The USA played a major role in establishing rural sociology as an academic discipline.

1820–1920: Age of Exploitation

    • Rich landlords exploited poor farmers, forcing them to migrate to cities.
    • This caused overcrowding in cities and economic problems in rural areas.
    • Scholars began studying rural problems to find solutions.

1908: Roosevelt’s "Country Life Commission"
    • Formed by President Theodore Roosevelt to study rural problems.
    • This is considered the Magna Carta of Rural Sociology.


1916: First Book on Rural Sociology

    • Prof. J. M. Gillette published Rural Sociology, making it an academic subject.


1917: Establishment of Rural Sociology Department

    • The American Sociological Society created the Department of Rural Sociology.


1919: Dr. C. H. Galpin's Contribution

    • Published The Social Autonomy of the Agricultural Community.
    • Helped define rural sociology as a distinct discipline.


1925: Purnell Act Passed

    • The US government passed this act to fund rural sociology research.


1930s: Economic Crisis and Growth of Rural Sociology

    • The Great Depression increased interest in rural social problems.
    • In 1936, the quarterly magazine Rural Sociology was first published.
    • In 1937, the Rural Sociological Committee was established.

3. Development of Rural Sociology in Europe

  • 1957: Establishment of the European Society for Rural Sociology (ESRS).
  • European scholars studied rural culture, agricultural policies, and rural-urban migration.

4. Development of Rural Sociology in India and Nepal

  • In India, rural sociology gained importance after independence (1947) due to rural development programs.
  • In Nepal, it became significant due to the large rural population (79.85% in 2019).

5. Prominent Scholars in Rural Sociology

  • Charles Sanderson
  • Burtherfield
  • Ernest Burnholme
  • John Morris
  • Gillin
  • F. H. Gidding
  • Thomas Nixon Carver


Rural sociology originated in response to rural social problems and gained academic recognition in the early 20th century. The USA played a major role in its development, followed by Europe and other parts of the world. Today, rural sociology is crucial for understanding rural life, development, and policymaking.