The Ultimate Guide to Disney Princesses: How Many Do They Have?

Welcome to the enchanting world of Disney Princesses! For generations, these iconic characters have captured our hearts and imaginations with their courage, kindness, and unwavering belief in happily-ever-afters. But have you ever wondered just how many Disney Princesses there are? Join us on a magical journey as we explore the ultimate guide to Disney Princesses and uncover the answer to this question that has puzzled fans for years. So, get ready to embark on an adventure through the kingdoms of Disney, where every princess has a story to tell and a lesson to teach.

An Overview of Disney Princesses

Who are Disney Princesses?

Disney Princesses are a group of fictional characters that have been created by Walt Disney Animation Studios. They are typically female characters who appear in Disney films and are known for their unique personalities, talents, and adventures. These characters often have magical powers, which they use to overcome challenges and save the day.

In general, Disney Princesses are portrayed as strong, independent, and brave individuals who are capable of achieving great things. They are also known for their kindness, compassion, and intelligence, which make them beloved by children and adults alike.

There are currently thirteen official Disney Princesses, including Cinderella, Snow White, Aurora, Ariel, Belle, Jasmine, Pocahontas, Mulan, Tiana, Rapunzel, Merida, and Moana. However, there are many other female characters in Disney films who could be considered Disney Princesses, such as Maleficent, Elsa, and Anna from Frozen, and Jane from Tarzan.

Disney Princesses are popular around the world and have become a part of pop culture. They have inspired countless costumes, toys, and other merchandise, and have even inspired entire vacations at Disney theme parks.

Disney Princesses through the Years

Timeline of Disney Princesses

The history of Disney Princesses can be traced back to 1937 when Snow White was introduced in the movie “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.” Since then, several Disney Princesses have been added to the lineup, including Cinderella, Aurora, Ariel, Belle, Jasmine, Pocahontas, Mulan, Tiana, Rapunzel, Merida, and Moana. Each of these Princesses has a unique story and personality that sets them apart from one another.

Evolution of Disney Princesses

Over the years, the Disney Princesses have evolved to become more diverse and representative of different cultures and backgrounds. The first Disney Princess of color, Tiana, was introduced in 2009 in the movie “The Princess and the Frog.” Merida, from Scotland, was added to the lineup in 2012, and Moana, from Polynesia, was introduced in 2016. These additions have helped to expand the range of experiences and perspectives represented by the Disney Princesses.

Additionally, the Disney Princesses have become more empowered and independent over time. Early Disney Princesses like Cinderella and Aurora were more passive and reliant on men to save them, while later Princesses like Tiana and Merida are more proactive and independent. This evolution reflects changing societal attitudes towards gender roles and female empowerment.

Overall, the Disney Princesses have come a long way since Snow White was introduced in 1937. The lineup now includes a diverse group of women from different cultures and backgrounds, each with their unique story and personality. As the Disney Princesses continue to evolve, they will likely continue to inspire and empower young girls around the world.

The Disney Princesses Canon

What is the Disney Princesses Canon?

The Disney Princesses Canon refers to the collection of fictional princesses that have been created and licensed by The Walt Disney Company. These princesses appear in various Disney movies, television shows, and other forms of media, and are beloved by children and adults alike for their charm, courage, and kindness.

The process of inclusion in the Disney Princesses Canon

Inclusion in the Disney Princesses Canon is not automatic and is subject to a strict set of criteria. In order to be considered for inclusion, a princess must meet the following requirements:

• She must be a female character.
• She must be the main character or a supporting character in a Disney movie or television show.
• She must embody the values of kindness, courage, and compassion.
• She must be a positive role model for young girls and women.

Once a princess meets these criteria, she is eligible for inclusion in the Disney Princesses Canon. However, the decision to include a princess in the canon is ultimately up to the discretion of The Walt Disney Company, and is based on a variety of factors, including the popularity of the character, the quality of the movie or television show in which she appears, and the overall cultural impact of the character.

The Diversity of Disney Princesses

Disney Princesses are known for their timeless beauty, grace, and strength. Over the years, the Disney Princess lineup has grown to include a diverse range of characters from different cultures, backgrounds, and time periods. Here’s a closer look at the diversity of Disney Princesses:

Ethnic diversity among Disney Princesses

Disney has made significant strides in recent years to include more ethnically diverse characters in their lineup of princesses. Some of the most notable examples include:

• Moana: The Polynesian princess from the 2016 film “Moana” is a strong, independent heroine who sets sail on a quest to save her people.
• Mulan: The Chinese heroine from the 1998 film “Mulan” disguises herself as a man to join the army and save her father’s life.
• Tiana: The African-American princess from the 2009 film “The Princess and the Frog” is a hardworking waitress who dreams of opening her own restaurant.
• Rapunzel: The German princess from the 2010 film “Tangled” is a curious and adventurous heroine who sets out to explore the world beyond her tower.

Other forms of diversity among Disney Princesses

In addition to ethnic diversity, Disney Princesses also come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and backgrounds. Some of the most notable examples include:

• Belle: The book-loving princess from the 1991 film “Beauty and the Beast” is known for her intelligence and independent spirit.
• Merida: The Scottish princess from the 2012 film “Brave” is a skilled archer and warrior who defies tradition and sets out to forge her own path in life.
• Elsa: The Nordic princess from the 2013 film “Frozen” is a powerful and relatable character who struggles with her own identity and powers.
• Jasmine: The Arabian princess from the 1992 film “Aladdin” is a strong-willed and confident heroine who speaks her mind and stands up for what she believes in.

Overall, the diversity of Disney Princesses has grown significantly over the years, reflecting the changing values and perspectives of modern audiences. By representing a wide range of cultures, backgrounds, and experiences, Disney has created a lineup of princesses that is both inclusive and inspiring to young girls and women everywhere.

The Disney Princesses and their Significance

Cultural Impact of Disney Princesses

Disney Princesses have had a profound impact on popular culture, with their stories and characters permeating into everyday life through merchandise, movies, and other forms of media. The Princesses have become symbols of femininity, inspiring countless girls to embrace their own inner strength and kindness. They have also sparked debates about the portrayal of women in media, with some critics arguing that they reinforce harmful stereotypes.

Disney Princesses as Role Models

Despite these criticisms, many people view Disney Princesses as positive role models for young girls. These characters embody traits such as courage, compassion, and determination, and they often go on transformative journeys that teach important life lessons. Additionally, many of the Princesses come from diverse backgrounds and cultures, which helps to promote inclusivity and representation.

In conclusion, Disney Princesses have had a significant impact on popular culture and have served as both a source of inspiration and a topic of debate. As we explore the world of Disney Princesses, it is important to consider both their positive contributions and their potential drawbacks.

The List of Disney Princesses

The Original Disney Princesses

Disney’s first foray into the world of princesses began in the 1930s with the release of their first feature-length animated film, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Since then, the company has produced a total of nine original Disney princesses, each with their own unique story and personality.

Snow White

• Voiced by: Adriana Caselotti
• Debut: Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)
• Personality: Innocent, kind-hearted, and gentle
• Characteristics: The first Disney princess, a kind and gentle girl who is forced to flee from her jealous stepmother, but finds refuge with seven dwarfs.

Cinderella

• Voiced by: Ilene Woods
• Debut: Cinderella (1950)
• Personality: Optimistic, kind, and hardworking
• Characteristics: A young woman who is mistreated by her stepmother and stepsisters, but ultimately finds happiness and love with the help of a fairy godmother and a magical glass slipper.

Aurora

• Voiced by: Mary Costa
• Debut: Sleeping Beauty (1959)
• Personality: Kind, gentle, and optimistic
• Characteristics: A princess who is cursed by an evil fairy, but is saved by a brave prince and a enchanted kiss.

Ariel

• Voiced by: Jodi Benson
• Debut: The Little Mermaid (1989)
• Personality: Curious, adventurous, and determined
• Characteristics: A mermaid who trades her voice for legs in order to pursue her dreams of becoming human and falling in love with a prince.

Belle

• Voiced by: Paige O’Hara
• Debut: Beauty and the Beast (1991)
• Personality: Intelligent, independent, and compassionate
• Characteristics: A young woman who falls in love with a prince who has been cursed into a beast, and helps him break the curse by learning to love and be loved in return.

Jasmine

• Voiced by: Lea Salonga
• Debut: Aladdin (1992)
• Personality: Confident, sassy, and determined
• Characteristics: A princess who falls in love with a street-smart thief, and helps him win the heart of the queen and save the kingdom from an evil sorcerer.

Pocahontas

• Voiced by: Irene Bedard (English) and Q’orianka Kilcher (Native American languages)
• Debut: Pocahontas (1995)
• Personality: Adventurous, kind-hearted, and independent
• Characteristics: A Native American princess who falls in love with an Englishman, and helps to bring peace between their two cultures.

Mulan

• Voiced by: Ming-Na Wen
• Debut: Mulan (1998)
• Personality: Brave, determined, and loyal
• Characteristics: A young woman who disguises herself as a man in order to take her father’s place in the army, and ultimately saves the day by defeating the enemy and bringing honor to her family.

The Modern Disney Princesses

The Modern Disney Princesses refer to a group of princesses that have been introduced in recent years by the Walt Disney Company. These princesses have been well-received by audiences and have become beloved characters in their own right. Here is a closer look at each of the Modern Disney Princesses:

Tiana

Tiana is the first African American Disney Princess. She is the protagonist of the 2009 film “The Princess and the Frog,” which is set in New Orleans during the Jazz Age. Tiana is a hardworking and determined young woman who dreams of opening her own restaurant. She is known for her strong will and her kind heart.

Rapunzel

Rapunzel is the protagonist of the 2010 film “Tangled.” She is a young woman with long, magical hair who dreams of leaving her tower and exploring the world. Rapunzel is known for her adventurous spirit and her courage.

Merida

Merida is the protagonist of the 2012 film “Brave.” She is a young woman who defies tradition and convention in order to pursue her own dreams. Merida is known for her fierce independence and her skill with a bow and arrow.

Moana

Moana is the protagonist of the 2016 film “Moana.” She is a young woman who sets sail across the Pacific to save her village and discover her true identity. Moana is known for her strength and her determination.

Elsa

Elsa is the protagonist of the 2013 film “Frozen.” She is a young queen who hides her true powers and emotions out of fear of hurting those she loves. Elsa is known for her icy magic and her powerful voice.

Anna

Anna is the protagonist of the 2013 film “Frozen.” She is a young queen who is devoted to her sister, Elsa, and dreams of finding love. Anna is known for her optimism and her kind heart.

Sofia the First

Sofia the First is the protagonist of the 2012 television series “Sofia the First.” She is a young girl who becomes a princess when her mother marries King Roland II. Sofia is known for her bravery and her ability to make friends with everyone she meets.

Elena of Avalor

Elena of Avalor is the protagonist of the 2016 television series “Elena of Avalor.” She is a young princess who is determined to save her kingdom and learn to rule with wisdom and justice. Elena is known for her courage and her compassion.

The Future of Disney Princesses

Disney has been introducing new princesses to their lineup for decades, and it doesn’t seem like they plan on stopping anytime soon. In fact, there are several upcoming Disney princesses that are set to join the ranks in the near future.

One of the most highly anticipated upcoming Disney princesses is Moana, the heroine of the 2016 film of the same name. Moana is a young Polynesian girl who sets out on a journey across the ocean to save her village and restore the heart of the island. She is set to officially join the Disney Princess lineup in 2018.

Another upcoming Disney princess is Elsa from the hit 2013 film Frozen. Elsa is a powerful queen with the ability to control ice and snow, and she is beloved by fans of all ages for her strength and determination. She will officially become a Disney Princess in 2019.

In addition to these two new princesses, there are several other characters in the Disney universe who could potentially join the Disney Princess lineup in the future. For example, Auli’i Cravalho, the voice of Moana, has stated that she would love to see other Polynesian characters join the Disney Princess lineup in the future.

As the Disney Princess lineup continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see which characters will be added next. It’s possible that we may see more characters from diverse backgrounds and cultures added to the lineup in the future, as Disney continues to strive for greater representation and inclusivity in their stories.

Disney Princesses and their Merchandise

Disney Princesses have been a popular merchandise item for decades, with their movies, dolls, and other products selling millions of units worldwide. The merchandise associated with Disney Princesses has had a significant impact on their popularity and has helped to shape the way they are perceived by children and adults alike.

The impact of merchandise on Disney Princesses

Merchandise has played a crucial role in the success of Disney Princesses, helping to bring their stories and characters to life outside of the movie theater. Dolls, clothes, and other products bearing the likeness of Disney Princesses have become highly sought-after collectibles, with many children and adults alike seeking to own as many items as possible.

Most popular Disney Princess merchandise

Some of the most popular Disney Princess merchandise includes dolls, costumes, and other toys that allow children to play and interact with their favorite characters. Many of these items are highly sought-after, with some collectors paying significant amounts of money to own rare or limited edition items. Additionally, many parents and grandparents enjoy purchasing Disney Princess merchandise as a way to share their favorite childhood characters with the next generation.

Disney Princesses and their Films

The impact of films on Disney Princesses

Disney Princesses have become iconic figures in popular culture, and their films have played a significant role in shaping their image and influence. From their earliest appearances on the big screen to their most recent adventures, these films have captivated audiences of all ages and helped to establish the Disney Princess brand as a global phenomenon.

Most popular Disney Princess films

Some of the most popular Disney Princess films include:

• Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937): The first Disney Princess film, based on the classic fairy tale.
• Cinderella (1950): A beloved tale of a young woman who overcomes adversity to find true love.
• Sleeping Beauty (1959): A classic story of love, magic, and a cursed princess.
• The Little Mermaid (1989): The story of a young mermaid who dreams of living on land and falls in love with a prince.
• Beauty and the Beast (1991): A tale of love and transformation, featuring an enchanted prince and a brave young woman.
• Aladdin (1992): A story of adventure and romance set in a magical kingdom, featuring a brave young hero and a princess in disguise.
• The Lion King (1994): A story of inheritance, betrayal, and the circle of life, featuring a young lion prince and his princess mother.
• Mulan (1998): The story of a young woman who disguises herself as a man to join the army and save her father’s life.
• Tangled (2010): A reimagining of the classic story of Rapunzel, featuring a charming thief and a brave princess.
• Frozen (2013): A story of sisterhood, love, and self-discovery, featuring two princess sisters and their journey to save their kingdom.

These films have had a significant impact on popular culture and have helped to shape the image of the Disney Princess brand. They continue to inspire new generations of fans and remain some of the most beloved and enduring stories of all time.

Disney Princesses and their Theme Parks

• The impact of theme parks on Disney Princesses
• Most popular Disney Princess attractions

The Impact of Theme Parks on Disney Princesses

Disney Princesses have been an integral part of the Disney brand for many years, and their popularity has only grown with the rise of theme parks. Theme parks have had a significant impact on the Disney Princess franchise, as they provide a unique opportunity for the company to showcase its characters and create immersive experiences for visitors.

One of the most significant impacts of theme parks on Disney Princesses is the way they have influenced the design and development of new attractions. Disney Parks have become a hub for innovation, and many of the new attractions that are developed are inspired by the company’s most popular characters. For example, the Disney Princess-themed ride, “It’s a Small World,” was first introduced at the 1964 New York World’s Fair and has since become a staple at Disney theme parks around the world.

Another impact of theme parks on Disney Princesses is the way they have influenced the merchandising of the franchise. Disney Parks are a significant source of revenue for the company, and the popularity of Disney Princesses has helped to drive sales of merchandise such as dolls, clothing, and accessories. In fact, Disney Princess-themed merchandise is one of the most popular categories of products sold at Disney stores and online.

Most Popular Disney Princess Attractions

Disney Princess attractions are some of the most popular in the company’s theme parks, and they continue to draw visitors from around the world. Some of the most popular Disney Princess attractions include:

• “It’s a Small World”: This classic ride features animatronic figures of Disney Princesses and other characters from around the world, and it has become a staple at Disney theme parks.
• “Ariel’s Grotto”: This meet-and-greet experience features the Little Mermaid herself, and it is a popular spot for visitors to take photos and get autographs.
• “Princess Fairytale Hall”: This attraction, located in the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World, allows visitors to meet and greet their favorite Disney Princesses, including Cinderella, Aurora, and Tiana.
• “Enchanted Tales with Belle”: This interactive experience, located in the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World, allows visitors to step inside the world of Beauty and the Beast and meet Belle herself.
• “The Princess and the Frog: Tiana’s Musical Journey”: This attraction, located at Disneyland Paris, tells the story of The Princess and the Frog and features music and characters from the film.

Overall, Disney Princess attractions are a crucial part of the company’s theme parks, and they continue to be a popular draw for visitors of all ages.

Disney Princesses and their Fans

• The impact of fans on Disney Princesses
  • Disney Princesses have become iconic figures in popular culture, beloved by children and adults alike. Their stories of bravery, kindness, and self-discovery have resonated with audiences for decades, inspiring countless adaptations, merchandise, and fan communities.
  • Fans of Disney Princesses are a diverse and passionate group, with many different interests and motivations. Some fans are drawn to the characters’ strength and independence, while others appreciate their grace and elegance. Some fans enjoy collecting merchandise or dressing up as their favorite characters, while others prefer to express their fandom through art, writing, or other creative outlets.
• The largest Disney Princess fan communities
  • The largest Disney Princess fan communities can be found online, where fans from all over the world can come together to share their love for the characters. Some of the most popular fan communities include the Disney Princess Wiki, the Disney Princess Club on Facebook, and the Disney Princess Fan Club on Twitter.
  • These communities offer a place for fans to discuss their favorite characters, share fan art and fanfiction, and organize events and meetups. They also provide a valuable resource for fans who want to learn more about the history and evolution of Disney Princesses, as well as their impact on popular culture.
  • While these online communities are some of the largest and most active, there are also many smaller, more specialized fan communities that focus on specific characters or aspects of the Disney Princess universe. These communities can be found on forums, social media, and other online platforms, and offer a more intimate and focused space for fans to connect and share their passion for Disney Princesses.

Disney Princesses and their Critics

Disney Princesses have been a beloved part of many childhoods, but they have also faced criticism over the years. The impact of these critics on the Disney Princess franchise has been significant, leading to changes in the way the characters are portrayed and marketed.

Common criticisms of Disney Princesses include:

• Lack of diversity: Many critics argue that the Disney Princess lineup is too whitewashed and lacks representation for people of color.
• Passive characters: Some argue that the Disney Princesses are too passive and reinforce harmful gender stereotypes by portraying women as weak and in need of rescue by men.
• Objectification: Critics have also pointed out that the Disney Princesses are often objectified and sexualized, which can be harmful to young girls.

Despite these criticisms, the Disney Princess franchise remains incredibly popular, with new movies and merchandise constantly being released. The impact of these criticisms on the franchise has led to changes in the way the characters are portrayed, such as the addition of more diverse characters like Moana and Tiana.

It’s important to note that the Disney Princess franchise is not without its flaws, and it’s crucial to consider the criticisms of these characters. However, it’s also important to acknowledge the positive impact that these characters have had on many childhoods and continue to have on new generations of young girls.

FAQs

1. How many Disney princesses are there?

There are currently 12 official Disney princesses. These include Snow White, Cinderella, Aurora (Sleeping Beauty), Ariel (The Little Mermaid), Belle (Beauty and the Beast), Jasmine (Aladdin), Pocahontas, Mulan, Tiana (The Princess and the Frog), Rapunzel (Tangled), Merida (Brave), and Moana. However, the number of official Disney princesses may change over time as new movies are released and characters are added or removed from the franchise.

2. How did Disney choose which characters to include in the Disney Princess franchise?

Disney did not provide a specific criteria for how they chose which characters to include in the Disney Princess franchise. However, it is likely that factors such as popularity, cultural significance, and merchandising potential played a role in the selection process. It is also worth noting that the franchise has evolved over time, with new characters being added and others being removed or relegated to secondary status.

3. Are there any Disney princesses who are not official members of the franchise?

Yes, there are several Disney princesses who are not official members of the Disney Princess franchise. These include characters such as Esmeralda (The Hunchback of Notre Dame), Jane (Tarzan), Nala (The Lion King), and many others. It is worth noting that the franchise is constantly evolving, and it is possible that some of these characters may be added to the franchise in the future.

4. What is the oldest Disney princess?

The oldest Disney princess is Snow White, who first appeared in the 1937 film Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Snow White is a classic character who has remained popular for decades, and she is often considered the archetypal Disney princess. Other classic Disney princesses include Cinderella and Aurora (Sleeping Beauty), both of whom also debuted in the 1930s.

5. What is the newest Disney princess?

The newest Disney princess is likely to be Raya from the 2021 film Raya and the Last Dragon. Raya is the first Disney princess to come from Southeast Asia, and she represents a significant expansion of the franchise’s cultural representation. Other recent additions to the franchise include Moana, who debuted in 2016, and Merida (Brave), who was added in 2013.

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