When did apologies start beginning with the word "IF"?

My mother taught me many of the things in life that I, and others, might be expected to apologize for. (She also told me a few things that I should never apologize for, or feel guilty about. That is another question)
My dad taught me that if I had something to apologize for I should have the balls to stand up and do it.
My dad actually taught me how to make an apology. The first thing you say is “I am sorry”, or “I apologize”. Period
In the last few years, I have noticed something when people (often public figures, not always) make an apology.

They say something like “If my actions annoyed you, I am sorry”.

Now that is a statement to be sure. And it even gives one a vague sense of contrition.
However, it is not an apology. It sort of makes it sound like you are part of the problem, even if you are not.

But more and more, it seems to be the norm.
What is this nonsense?
Do people actually believe that they are not capable of committing a transgression that merits apology?
Before we get into this too far-I am not some hyper sensitive guy who is constantly offended, devestated, appalled, etc. In fact, I can only think of a couple occasions in my entire life where I was actually due an apology.
So, where and when did it happen, that people began to think that they were too special to make a real apology?