Create a normal div that shows the Ajax. Gif so it shows "processing" by default.
I would put a Ajax timer on the page and set it for less than a second... It will only run once and after its first tick then you need to disable it otherwise it will fire again. (you don't want to start your long running process more than once...).
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.