Walt Disney's Impact On American Culture

In the year 1938, Walt Disney introduced the iconic Snow White to American theaters. She quickly became the heroine of little girls all over the country, as she personified everything they dreamt of being. Throughout the years, Disney continued to introduce America to new Princesses, each with their own unique characteristics, personalities and dreams. What was it about these princesses that has caused them to become idols to American females, young and old alike? Perhaps the allure was that they were relatable. As each princess was introduced, she had actually evolved from the previous one to be analogous to what American women were experiencing and feeling at the time. In other words, the gradual modernization of Disney princesses throughout

She talked when she shouldn’t, lacked in poise and refinement, and miserably failed her meeting with the esteemed Matchmaker. Instead of being refined and obedient, she was by nature a clumsy tomboy. Although she wanted nothing more than to bring honor to her family, she could see the disappointment in their eyes. Her inner turmoil was portrayed as she sang the words “Can it be I’m not meant to play this part? If I were truly to be myself, I would break my families heart.” She made the brave and risky decision to join the Imperial Army in her fathers place. As she raised the sword to cut her hair for disguise, the sword served as a phallic symbol which emancipated her from her most feminine attribute and released her to embrace her new self. At the end, she bravely showed authentic self to her community while using her fortitude, courage and strength to save the Emperor. The message she conveyed would have been very applicable to women who lived in America in the late 90’s. She broke gender boundaries, both in her appearance and actions. In addition, just like the American women who were the first to ship out alongside men, Mulan was also the first in her time to become a woman soldier. Mulan also mimicked American women’s attitude of being fierce, brave and not afraid to do what was normally reserved for