Final answer:
The outbreak of a general pestilence caused the problem, affecting many countries and regions in different ways.
Step-by-step explanation:
The cause of the problem in the first place was the outbreak of a general pestilence, which affected many countries, cities, and towns in varying degrees.
This pestilence affected some countries more than others, as well as certain cities, towns, and even specific houses within them. Additionally, it was observed that nobles and gentry were affected less than other people.
Factors such as the natural cause of the pestilence, its spread, and the varying impact on different regions and social classes contributed to making this problem widespread and complicated to solve.