Hobson's choice

What is the origin of the idiom "Hobson's choice" and when to use it?

The idiom "Hobson's choice" is derived from the name of Thomas Hobson, an English stable owner who operated in the 16th and 17th centuries. Hobson had a practice of offering customers the option of either taking the horse that was closest to the stable door or taking none at all. This limited choice was meant to ensure that his horses were used fairly and consistently. Over time, the phrase "Hobson's choice" came to represent situations where only one option is presented, essentially giving individuals no real choice or alternative.