Sea shanties are traditional work songs that sailors used to coordinate their efforts while performing tasks on ships. These songs often have a call-and-response format, making it easier for crew members to sing together while pulling ropes or hoisting sails. The rhythmic nature of the shanties helped maintain a steady pace during hard labor. Typically, sea shanties feature themes related to the sea, adventure, and life aboard a ship. They were popular from the 16th to the 19th centuries, especially during the age of sail. Today, sea shanties are celebrated for their historical significance and are often performed in folk music settings.