The answer I've posted over here deals with focusing an element inside a DataTemplate, but it should provide the code you need. It involves using the FindName method on your DataTemplate to find a control within it. If you give your UserControl a name you should be right.
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.