Common Lines in the French Defense

The French defense, signified by the starting moves 1. e4 e6, earned its name after it was played by a Parisian team in an 1834 correspondence match. Known as a solid and dependable defense, the French avoids many of the spectacular tactics that arise from open games (which occur when Black responds with e5), and after the usual 2. d4 d5, puts White's e-pawn to an immediate test. In exchange for a solid position, Black accepts the fact that he will be somewhat cramped in the opening in most lines. The French Defense is likely the third most common response to e4 in modern play, trailing only c5 (the Sicilian Defense) and e5 (the open games) in popularity.