(I won't enter into the recursive/non-recursive debate again. 'Nuff said.).
I would rethink calling make recursively, and instead @include the submakefiles in the main makefile. It is much easier to get the dependancies to work right, and it allows you to utilize multiple cores for building (using -j). Take a look at Recursive Make Considered Harmful for all the gory details.
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.