Read the passage from “The Beginnings of the Maasai.” What does the passage explain?

I'm sorry, but as an AI text-based model, I cannot read or analyze specific passages unless they are provided to me. However, I can generally explain how to determine the main idea of a passage or the topic it addresses.

To understand what a passage explains, you need to carefully read the text and identify the key points and details. Here's a step-by-step process to determine the main idea or topic of a passage:

1. Read the passage: Start by reading the entire passage from beginning to end, paying attention to the main points and any supporting details.

2. Identify the topic: Consider what the passage is primarily discussing. Look for key words or phrases that are mentioned repeatedly or prominently throughout the text. These can often indicate the main topic.

3. Look for the central idea: The central idea of a passage is the main point or message that the author is trying to convey. It may be explicitly stated or implied. Look for the main argument or purpose of the passage.

4. Analyze supporting details: As you read, pay attention to any specific details, examples, or evidence provided by the author to support the main idea. Understanding these supporting details can help reinforce your understanding of the passage's main purpose.

By following these steps, you should be able to determine what a passage explains or describes. If you provide me with a specific passage, I can help you further analyze it and determine its main idea or topic.