I'd go for windows 7. Windows 8 is still a bit buggy and some things are not compatible with it yet. Also if you want to play any older games or install older software this more than likely won't work on windows 8.
If you've been using vista, then the UI of windows 7 is going to be a lot easier to use.
Certainly NOT Windows 8! Wayyyy TOOOOO many issues. Win 7 is the best coice if you want a Windows machine.
I dislike Win 8 so much I turn people down that want me to work on their Win 8 rigs, most opt to have me install Win 7 instead.
I cant really gove you an answer,but what I can give you is a way to a solution, that is you have to find the anglde that you relate to or peaks your interest. A good paper is one that people get drawn into because it reaches them ln some way.As for me WW11 to me, I think of the holocaust and the effect it had on the survivors, their families and those who stood by and did nothing until it was too late.