The 10 Toughest Disney Princesses

Selecting the 10 toughest Disney princesses isn’t too hard, and it’s very uplifting since the ‘damsel in distress’ trope has run its course. Some might argue which female Disney leads are actual princesses. Still, those who make a list are among the canonized characters with one or more qualities that qualify them as formidable and endearing to the fans.

Moana

Curious is one great way to describe Moana, since against her father’s wishes, she decided to sail away to find a way to save her island and her people. Facing off against a demigod isn’t easy, nor is taking on a lava monster, but Moana did both. That’s the type of conviction that can carry one far in life.

Merida

It’s fair to state that Merida is incredibly stubborn and carries many of her mother and father with her throughout the movie “Brave.” Yet, she is exceptionally skilled with the bow and doesn’t back down to anyone. Granted, she needed help with the movie’s main enemy, but Merida’s courage was still impressive.

Raya

It’s fair to say that “Raya and the Last Dragon” didn’t reach the same fame as many Disney movies. But it’s still a powerful story in which unity is pushed as one of the most essential ideas. Her part in the film shows Raya as a headstrong but capable warrior, and her character development is fascinating.

Elsa

Elsa’s power is enough to put her on this list, but her fear holds the princess back for much of the movie, even forcing her to isolate herself at one point. However, her sister’s love eventually breaks through and reminds her that she is not alone and can rely on others. The reservoir of inner strength that Elsa finds soon after is far more profound than she’d realized.

Mulan

Based on a true story, Mulan is a historical figure that Disney took and molded to their liking, which is fine. It created a fun and engaging story of a young woman who sought to protect her father and bring her family honor. While the live-action movie left a little to be desired in the eyes of many fans, the animated version was an engaging story that, despite exaggeration, was fun and inspirational.

Pocahontas

As another individual taken from history, this story is even more different than what has been recorded. However, this character’s convictions and courage helped make Pocahontas even stronger and more inspirational to young women. While history paints a very different picture, Disney created a far more positive story for the fans.

Kida

Interestingly, few people know that much about “Atlantis: The Lost Empire,” but in all fairness, it didn’t get the same hype as many other Disney movies. But as one of the stronger Disney princesses, Kida was responsible for much more than her people, as she had to save her home as well. It’s true that she requires help, but the responsibility she carries makes her one of the most admirable characters.

Rapunzel

Rapunzel isn’t much about physical toughness since she’s still a young woman. But when it comes to her character, she’s as unstoppable as she is exuberant about her desire to see the floating lights. Indeed, she might need Flynn, but he needed a little more at times, making the two a great match.

Tiana

The grit and determination that Tiana employed in “The Princess and the Frog” was admirable and amazing. Despite being knocked down, metaphorically, and discouraged, Tiana didn’t stop pushing forward when life threw her a few curveballs. This makes her one of the absolute toughest princesses on this list.

Jasmine

If attitude alone made a person tough, Jasmine would be at the top of the list. She’s a forceful personality without question, but she does need Aladdin and the Genie to help her out. But when it comes to speaking her mind and taking charge, Jasmine is not to be dismissed.