Have you tried formatting the java date. Maybe the formats are different so it can't match between the JSON and the one stored in your db?
Use Timestamp. Consider Joda time plug. ...and read this answer.
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.