There are various synonyms for "was widespread," depending on the context and intensity of the spread. Some possibilities include "was prevalent," "was ubiquitous," "was rampant," "was pervasive," "was extensive," "was common," and "was pervasive." Each of these synonyms provides a slightly different nuance to the meaning of the original phrase, with some emphasizing the broad and pervasive nature of the spread while others highlight the frequency or intensity of the occurrence. Ultimately, the choice of synonym will depend on the specific context of the sentence and the desired effect on the reader.