Pre-emption
A Law Dictionary and Glossary · George C. Kinney · 1893
A Law Dictionary and Glossary
In American law
A privilege enjoyed by government in relation to Indian lands; an exclusive right to purchase a quantity of public lands, acquired by residence thereon, cultivatioii, etc., in compliance with the law. Pre-emption claimant: one who settles on land subject to pre-emption with the intention of exercising a pre-emptor's rights.
In English law
The first buying of a thing; a privilege formerly enjoyed by the crown, of buying up provisions and other necessaries for the use of the royal household, in preference to all others.