I'd guess it has something to do with VS2012's new v110_xp platform toolset which uses an SDK similar to 7.1. For my older projects that need 2003 Server and XP support I use that toolset now with VS2012 instead of the default toolset with VS2008 or VS2010 so I no longer need the older Visual Studios. It might solve your problem as well.
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.