The French Defense
The French Defense has a reputation for solidity and resilience, though it can result in a somewhat cramped game for Black in the early stages. Black usually gains counter-attacking possibilities on the queenside while White tends to concentrate on the kingside.
Important contributors of the French defense include Mikhail Botvinnik, Viktor Korchnoi, Aron Nimzowitsch, Tigran Petrosian, Wolfgang Uhlmann, etc.
The French defense is characterised by the moves:-
