[NonIndigenous]

First look at what "religion" really is. It's a belief system of some sort, with people who believe in something (whatever it is). That's why in theory you could even say different political views are forms of religion.

There are plenty of examples of how religions come into existence even today. Here's a list of "new" religions: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of...ious_movements

Religions usually form under the leadership of some person. That's basically it. In more depth... religions usually form when people feel more desperate for answers which aren't being given to them. "Hard times" in other words. When people are desperate, they're often prepared to believe in anything and follow anyone. They're looking for a "role model". So then you get a certain type of person, who becomes a leader, and "guides" his followers, who too often believe anything the leader says,... which isn't a good thing, because there'l always be people who try to abuse this power. Basically, there's almost always at least one asshole who tries to take advantage of the situation.

It isn't something easy to explain to a 12 year old (no offence). I've tried to keep it as simple as I can. It's a difficult topic.