Dan, absolutely, I agree that *just* because you have good character, it doesn't make you a leader.  You must have skills, experience, knowledge, ability.  That said, it doesn't require that you have people reporting to you, either.

To your point, people with bad character can have followers as well.  Indeed, they're leaders - but not great ones.

Most certainly, you're not ignorant, Dan!  I appreciate that you asked great questions to encourage more conversation and clarification!  Thanks for doing that!