You didn't start Erlang with -name or -sname which means that the distribution subsystem was not started. Try this.
I am not 100% sure, but You started erl without "-name" oder "-sname". I believe net_adm:ping/1 only works in a distributed mode.
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.