The Grand Prince of Kabardia was the title given to the Kabardian rulers. In Russian sources, it is referred to as the Kabardian governor. In the late 18th century, the term Pshi Thamada was used to denote the title by the Kabardians, which was mentioned in 16th-19th century Russian sources as the Grand Duke, or Grand Prince. All Kabardian princes and dynasties claim descent from Inal the Great. The Grand Prince of Kabardia was elected by the votes of other princes and first-ranked nobles. This title could only be attained through election and could not be passed down unlawfully from father to son. The Grand Prince of Kabardia was a nominal vassal of the Prince of Princes of Circassia.