He believes Columbia developed "a defensive orientation" after 1968, when students seized the president's office, went on strike and severely disrupted the campus for six weeks.

Meanwhile, Democrats have seized the governor's office, all but one cabinet post, control of the state legislature, both Senate seats and 32 of 52 House seats.

It was followed by a second wave on May 5 in Karbala, and more attacks which seized the governor's office in Najaf on May 6.

He organized a people army that on October 3 stormed the police cordons, seized the Moscow Mayor's office and attempted to seize the Ostankino television station.

Other F.B.I. agents were seizing Cox's office and files.

Federal agents seized the hotels and Mr. Keating's office.

It is unclear how long either governor will be able to sustain the glow, especially with budget problems and rivals waiting for the chance to seize the governor's office.

When the old lord of the Black Palace was dying, Samis seized his office and the Ring that signified it.

San Diego may now enter a period of behind-the-scenes political intrigue, as power brokers try to seize the mayor's office.

Earlier this week, American forces seized the governor's office in Najaf and installed Mr. Zorfi as the new governor.