You can't mess up a title, and just ask for a "do over". The title HAS to be straightened out. Maybe a possible fix would be to have original owner file for a lost title, but he is the missing guy.
You might be able for the DMV person that had you sign on the dealers line, fill out a form (official state form) called "no intention to fraud". It's a long shot, and I'm not up on your state laws. Just telling you what might be possible with my experience in dealers laws here in Kansas.
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.