Is there a public geolocation system that I can query for names of local cities?

Looks as though MaxMind offers a free database that you could download in CSV.

You may also obtain a free major cities database at geodatasource.com. This can help you to determine the set of cities needed for your dropdown (or whatever) data.

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.