Global progress is often overlooked, but historical data reveals significant advancements. Poverty rates have dramatically decreased over the past two centuries, with the share of extremely poor people falling below 10% in 2019. This progress is attributed to increased productivity, economic growth, and advancements in science. Similarly, literacy rates have soared, with 87% of the global population now able to read and write. Health conditions have vastly improved, with child mortality rates dropping to 4% in 2021. Political freedom has also expanded, with more than half the world living in democracies. The future looks promising, with education projected to continue improving.
https://ourworldindata.org/a-history-of-global-living-conditions