French Defense
The French Defence (1.e4 e6 2.d4 d5) is a solid defensive system where Black builds a pawn chain and aims to undermine White's center, particularly targeting the e4 pawn.
← All openingsKey ideas
Build pawn chain with e6-d5; Undermine White's center with c5; Activate the light-squared bishop via b7 or d7; Create counterplay on the queenside
Strengths
Solid pawn structure; clear strategic plans; good for positional players; Black's light-squared bishop can become powerful; proven at all levels
Watch out for
Light-squared bishop often passive; cramped position in early game; White gains space advantage; requires patience
Typical pawn structure
Black: pawn chain e6-d5-c6, cramped but solid; White: central majority with e4-d4
Common mistakes
Playing c5 too early without preparation; Neglecting the light-squared bishop; Allowing a space advantage without counterplay; Passive piece placement
History
Named after a match between London and Paris in 1834 where Parisian players employed it successfully. Played by World Champions including Botvinnik, Petrosian, and Korchnoi. Known for leading to rich strategic battles.
Famous games
Botvinnik vs Capablanca, 1938; Petrosian vs Spassky, 1969; Korchnoi vs Karpov, 1978