If you want to code it from scratch the basic process is to create a PHP script that gathers the data and sends it back to the AJAX request. Usually I create a separate PHP file that handles whatever operation I need.
Chris' answer gives a good high level overview of the concept, but it will not provide real time updates.
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.