Protestantism in the West, the Enlightenment, and Capitalism

[CAleftist]

How much do the Enlightenment and the Protestant Reformation have to do with the development of Capitalism in Europe and America?

I can't help but notice the fact that the British Empire and then America were/are the two most powerful Capitalist countries in the world, and both have a heavy Protestant tradition.

I know that fundamentalist Protestants in America in the early 1900s preached the "Prosperity Gospel"-that is, wealth and piety go hand in hand, and one should work hard and become wealthy both materially and spiritually. But does the connection go further than that, or is it just coincidence?

EDIT: Mods, please move to Religion forum. Thanks.

[Aurorus Ruber]

I recall that Weber argued something along those lines, with the Protestant Work Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism.