Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Statesman \States"man\, n.; pl. {Statesmen}.
   1. A man versed in public affairs and in the principles and
      art of government; especially, one eminent for political
      abilities.

            The minds of some of our statesmen, like the pupil
            of the human eye, contract themselves the more, the
            stronger light there is shed upon them. --More.

   2. One occupied with the affairs of government, and
      influental in shaping its policy.

   3. A small landholder. [Prov. Eng.] --Halliwell.