The late 1800s saw the invention and early experimentation with automobiles. Karl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler developed some of the first gasoline-powered vehicles. Automobiles were still a luxury item and not widely accessible.

The early 1900s witnessed the rapid growth of the automotive industry, particularly in the United States. Henry Ford's assembly line revolutionized production, making cars more affordable and accessible to the masses. This increased demand for automobiles created a need for safety and convenience features.

Mary Anderson invented the windshield wiper during this pivotal time. Although her invention was innovative, the relatively small market for automobiles and resistance to adopting the device hindered its immediate success.

By the 1920s, automobiles had become a mainstream mode of transportation. The need for improved visibility in adverse weather conditions became increasingly apparent, leading to the widespread adoption of windshield wipers as a standard feature. Electric windshield wipers were also developed, further improving their functionality.