Personality, Ethnicity, and Playing Style

How would you characterize (in general) the playing styles of individual nationalities (i.e. Russian, English, Dutch, Latino, American, etc.)?

One sees the connection between style and country in soccer for instance. The Germans are very deliberate and machine like until they wear teams down. The Brazilians are so artistic and free-flowing with raw skill. The Dutch excel at all facets of the game with every player sharing eachothers roles. The Italians are quick, direct, and methodical. Does this show up in chess?

What openings/defenses would you suggest for someone who likes balance in all areas of the game?

Thanks.

based on my personal observation: americans tend to hang pieces...

Unlike soccer/football all of one nations chessplayers do not train together. Hence, you have a wide variety of styles. I would hypothosize that personal style is primarily based on personality (that statement is pure opinion and based on no facts whatsoever).

My attack is knobbly-kneed, if that's what you're looking for.

I think your analogy might be unsound: chess is an individual activity while soccer is a team sport.

Originally posted by AJ06
...The Dutch excel at all facets of the game...

Originally posted by AJ06
The Dutch excel at all facets of the game