What is the origin of the idiom "tempest in a teapot" and when to use it?

The idiom "tempest in a teapot" is a figurative expression used to describe a situation where there is an excessive, exaggerated, or unnecessary display of strong emotion, conflict, or drama over a minor or inconsequential issue. It originates from the idea that a teapot or teakettle is small and contains only a limited amount of liquid, so any disturbance inside it, such as boiling water, would be confined and insignificant. Thus, this idiom suggests that the commotion is much more significant than the issue warrants.