There was a time when theMCUwas devoid of strong female stories.

Thankfully, theKevin Feige-led franchise has firmly committed to expanding representation in its films and TV series.

Before TChallas coronation, she reminds him: Just because something works, doesnt mean it cant be improved.

Monica Rambeau, Natasha Romanoff, Wanda Maximoff, Shuri

Well done, princess!

in a straight-up slugfest with the Kingpin himself.

Oh, and she got her criminal mother arrested on Christmas Eve.

Shuri speaking with T’Challa

Image via Marvel Studios

Just like the team of misfits that she went on to join, Gamora eventually showed a nobler side.

Though Thanos eventually got his hands on the Stone, Gamora certainly went down fighting.

But as it turned out, it was all a pretense.

Kate Bishop aiming an arrow

Captain Marvel: Unbridled Strength

Carol Danvers is thepersonification of power.

Remember when Thanos tried to headbutt her in Binary mode?

It’s fascinating, then, that Carol came close to missing out on her full potential.

Gamora

Nowthat’sa strong message sent.

As she was dusted by Thanos' Snap, she could do nothing as cancer overcame her mother Maria.

Nebula: A Full Redemption Arc

At first, Nebula wasas despicable a characteras can be.

Florence Pugh as Yelena Belova on a rooftop during a mission for the Red Room

Image via Marvel Studios

Though she reluctantly mended fences with her sister Gamora inGuardians of the Galaxy Vol.

2, Nebula remained highly antagonistic in the events of that film.

Then again, perhaps that warm embrace from her sister did the trick.

Brie Larson as Carol Danvers in Captain Marvel

Image via Marvel Studios

As the Wasp, Hope showcased her intensemartial arts training, tactical brilliance, and mastery of Pym Tech.

And, moments after being Blipped, what does she do?

Hope springs right back into actionthe action that she has always craved forto save the Earth.

Monica Rambeau powering up

Wanda Maximoff: The Multiverse In Her Hands

There are two levels to this outstanding character arc.

On the other hand, there’s the Scarlet Witchthe mysterious entity with the power to disrupt the multiverse.

In her decade-plus odyssey, Natasha’s character has seen remarkable growth.

Nebula flashing a smile

Of course, her most important mission was to conquer her inner turmoil.

Mission accomplished, Nat.

NEXT:Amazing Limited Series Performances By Unforgettable Women

Hope Van Dyne in a classroom

Wanda Maximoff in her classic Scarlet Witch costume during WandaVision Halloween episode.

Image via Disney+

Natasha Romanoff in the aftermath of battle

Movie

Black Widow