Meaning: The quote "I make a prediction here and now, and, my friends, I want you to watch the proceedings of Congress in these coming weeks of this extra session, or of the next regular session, to see whether I am right or not" is attributed to Richard Bland, a prominent American politician from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This quote reflects Bland's confidence in his ability to foresee the outcomes of political events, particularly those related to the proceedings of the United States Congress.

Richard Bland was known for his involvement in economic and monetary policy debates during a crucial period in American history. He was a staunch advocate for bimetallism, a monetary system based on the use of both gold and silver as currency. Bland's prediction in the quote may have been related to an upcoming congressional debate or decision regarding monetary policy, or perhaps another significant legislative matter.

Bland's call for his "friends" to observe the proceedings of Congress underscores his belief in the transparency and accountability of the political process. By encouraging others to closely monitor the actions and decisions of their elected representatives, Bland sought to demonstrate the importance of civic engagement and informed participation in the democratic system.

Furthermore, the quote suggests that Bland was confident in his own insights and understanding of political dynamics. His willingness to stake his reputation on the accuracy of his prediction indicates a level of conviction and self-assurance in his own analysis of the political landscape.

The phrase "extra session" refers to a period when Congress convenes outside of its regular schedule to address urgent or pressing matters. Bland's reference to the "next regular session" indicates that he anticipated the issues he was predicting to unfold could potentially span multiple legislative gatherings.

It is worth noting that Bland's prominence as a political figure and his involvement in monetary policy debates significantly influenced the economic and political discourse of his time. His predictions and insights would likely have been closely followed and debated by his contemporaries, further emphasizing the significance of the quote in capturing the spirit of political anticipation and engagement during that era.

In conclusion, Richard Bland's quote encapsulates his confidence in predicting the outcomes of congressional proceedings and his call for others to observe and verify his foresight. It reflects his commitment to transparency in governance and his belief in the power of informed civic participation. Additionally, the quote provides a glimpse into the political and economic context of Bland's time, shedding light on the issues and debates that were central to the national discourse.