If MessageBox()/related are synchronous, why doesn't my message loop freeze?

The MessageBox() and similar Windows API functions are not blocking the execution, like an IO operation or mutexing would do. The MessageBox() function creates a dialog box usually with an OK button - so you'd expect automatic handling of the Windows messages related to the message box. This is implemented with it's own message loop - no new thread is created, but your application remains responsive, because selected messages like Paint are handled calling recursively your WndProc() function, and some messages are not transmitted to, because of the modal type of the created window.

MessageBox runs its own Win32 message loop (so as not to freeze calling app).

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.