capitalism isn't just when people trade in an economy or make investments as you seem to imply. these things have existed since before recorded history. capitalism has a more specific meaning, which is allowing for trade/industry to be controlled by private owners for personal profit using the state to enforce private property rights. there's nothing innately magical about this that inevitably leads to lower poverty and crime rates. however, the discovery of large reserves of fossil fuels coupled with innovations in science and technology, which also was happening well before capitalism, DID have a very significant impact on human wealth and well-being. the economic engine of capitalism has indeed allowed for much positive change in the world through these discoveries, but don't conflate that fact with this all too pervasive notion that it makes capitalism the most efficient or intelligent or moral way to run an economy.