[f. LEADER1 + -SHIP.] The dignity, office or position of a leader, esp. of a political party; also, ability to lead.

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1834.  Fonblanque, Eng. under 7 Administr. (1887), III. 130. Is the leadership of the House to be conservatively settled by placing the minority in office?

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1856.  E. A. Bond, Russia at Close 16th C. (Hakluyt Soc.), Introd. p. xxix. An invasion of the Crim Tartars in an immense horde, under the leadership of their khan, Dewlet Geray.

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a. 1859.  Macaulay, Hist. Eng., xxiv. (1861), V. 165. That high position which has now been long called the Leadership of the House of Commons.

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1870.  Pall Mall Gaz., 26 Aug., 1. Nothing is wanted but military leadership and military means.

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1885.  Law Times, LXXIX. 351/2. The leadership of a great circuit.

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