Great necessities call out great virtues.

The quote "Great necessities call out great virtues." by Abigail Adams suggests that times of great need or crisis often bring out the best qualities in people. When faced with significant challenges or demands, individuals are compelled to rise above their usual capabilities and tap into inner strength and courage. This quote highlights how adversity can lead to the discovery or enhancement of virtues such as bravery, resilience, and selflessness.

Abigail Adams, the wife of John Adams and the second First Lady of the United States, lived through tumultuous times, including the American Revolution and the early years of the new republic. Her own life was marked by sacrifices and challenges, both personal and political. The quote reflects her belief that in moments of great necessity, people are often able to access the deeper virtues that might otherwise remain dormant in easier times.

The origin of this quote likely stems from Adams's personal experiences as a woman living through the revolutionary period, where she had to manage her household, care for her children, and support her husband during a time of political upheaval. Adams often wrote to her husband, offering advice and observations on the importance of character and the role of virtue in shaping the future of the nation.

Ultimately, Adams’s words serve as a reminder that crisis can serve as a powerful catalyst for growth and the expression of great virtues. It suggests that in the face of great challenges, individuals are called upon to demonstrate qualities they may not have known they possessed, and these virtues can play a key role in overcoming adversity.