Why was james watts steam engine so important?

Which phrase describes one of the reforms the national convention made up to improve the lives of ordinary french people

2. what was the significance of the british reform act of 1832? members of the middle class were permitted to run for parliament. members of the working class demanded and received better living conditions. voters were given the right to vote by secret ballot, farm workers, factory workers, and women were given the right to vote.

What does portia compare a rumor to? how does she describe how the rumor is circulating? what is shakespeare's purpose in using this imagery?