Final answer:
Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection provided a systematic mechanism that explained species adaptation and change, based on his observation and evidence.
Step-by-step explanation:
What specifically made Charles Darwin's theory of evolution stand out was his systematic explanation of evolution through natural selection. Unlike other theories of his time, Darwin's theory provided a mechanism for how species adapt and change, which was based on the observations and hard evidence gathered from his extensive travels and studies. He postulated that species evolve over time due to the differential survival and reproduction of individuals with favorable traits, a process he termed survival of the fittest.