Examining the later twelfth- and early thirteenth-century history of the dynasty of Chernigov, this study demonstrates that the princes of Chernigov were among the most powerful in Kievan Rus'. It therefore challenges the established view of the political history of Kievan Rus'. Unlike other studies, it also examines in detail themes such as succession and inheritance, rivalries for domains, marriage alliances, the role of trade in inter-dynastic relations, nomadic incursions on Rus', and princely relations with the Church.