Which cultural group is known for singing waulking songs?

The correct answer identifies the women of the Western Isles of Scotland as the cultural group known for singing waulking songs. Waulking songs, or “puirt à beul,” are traditional Scottish Gaelic songs that were sung by women during the process of waulking wool, which involves fulling it to make it thicker and warmer. This practice is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Western Isles and is characterized by its call-and-response format, where the group would sing together in a rhythmic and lively manner to keep the energy up during the labor-intensive process.

The songs contributed to community bonding and were often performed in a communal setting, highlighting cultural identity and the importance of oral tradition in transmitting knowledge and history. Their specific style is unique to Scottish culture and showcases the rich heritage of the Gaelic-speaking population in this region.

Other groups mentioned in the choices, while having their own distinct musical traditions, do not have a specific association with waulking songs.