Meaning: The quote "It can not be done; it shall not be done! I speak for the great masses of the Mississippi Valley, and those west of it, when I say you shall not do it!" by Richard Bland, a politician, reflects a sense of determination and defiance against an action or decision that appears to be unacceptable to a particular group of people. To provide context and a deeper understanding of the quote, it is essential to explore the background of Richard Bland and the historical and political context in which he made this statement.

Richard Parks Bland was a prominent American politician who served as a U.S. Representative from Missouri. He was known for his advocacy of the free coinage of silver and his strong support for the farmers and laborers of the Mississippi Valley and the western United States. During the late 19th century, the issue of monetary policy, particularly the debate between the gold standard and the free coinage of silver, was a highly contentious and divisive topic in American politics.

Bland's quote can be interpreted as a passionate declaration of resistance against a policy or decision that he believed would negatively impact the people of the Mississippi Valley and the western region of the United States. His use of emphatic language, including the repeated "It can not be done; it shall not be done!" conveys a sense of urgency and unwavering determination to prevent the implementation of the perceived detrimental action.

In the late 1800s, the economic interests of the agricultural and mining communities in the western United States were deeply intertwined with the debate over monetary policy. Many farmers and miners, particularly in the Mississippi Valley and the western states, favored the free coinage of silver as a means to increase the money supply and provide relief from the deflationary pressures they were experiencing.

Bland's impassioned statement can be viewed in the context of the broader struggle for economic and political representation for these marginalized groups. By asserting that he spoke for the "great masses" of the Mississippi Valley and the western region, Bland positioned himself as a champion of the common people, standing up against what he perceived as unjust policies that would harm their livelihoods.

The quote also reflects the spirit of populism that was prevalent during this era. Populism, characterized by its appeal to the concerns of ordinary people and its critique of elite power and privilege, was a significant force in American politics at the time. Bland's words resonate with the populist sentiment of advocating for the interests of the "great masses" and challenging the authority of those who sought to impose policies without regard for the well-being of the common people.

In conclusion, Richard Bland's quote encapsulates a fervent expression of defiance and solidarity on behalf of the people of the Mississippi Valley and the western United States. It serves as a reminder of the historical struggles for economic justice and political empowerment that shaped American society during the late 19th century. Bland's unwavering determination to protect the interests of the common people against perceived injustices continues to resonate as a powerful statement of resistance and advocacy for the marginalized communities of his time.