Final answer:
During the medieval period, most people believed the cause of the Black Death was a punishment from God. This belief was due to the widespread devastation caused by the plague and its impact on all levels of society. The outbreak also led to labor shortages, contributing to economic changes.
Step-by-step explanation:
During the medieval period, most people believed that the cause of the Black Death was a punishment from God for the sins of mankind. This explanation made sense to many because the outbreak was seen as a great calamity that affected all levels of society, including the weak and marginalized groups who were often blamed initially. The deaths caused by the plague also led to labor shortages, making it easier for serfs to renegotiate their contracts with their lords or find their own land, which in turn helped pave the way for economic markets and capitalism.