Necessity is the mother of invention

Proverbial Meaning: Situations that require new technologies or ways of thinking usually produce someone to invent them.

Literal Origins: Many of the world's greatest inventions have arisen in times of great need.

Common Usage: This proverb is well-known but is not used all that often by many people. It is used when considering inventions that were made during times of hardship, such as World War II.