An individualist is a person who pursues independent thought or action.
The Donner Party
Rugged- Having a bumpy, battered uneven surface. "Despite the rugged coastline, the view and beauty was stunning."
'Rugged individualism' means individualism in social and economic affairs; belief not only in personal liberty and self-reliance but also in free competition
rocky, broken, rough, craggy, difficult, ragged, irregular, uneven, strong-featured, rough-hewn, weather-beaten, well-built, strong, tough, robust, sturdy, robust, muscular, sturdy, burly, husky,...