Peter take a look at SQL# which is a SQLCLR Assembly created by Solomon Rutzky that has two versions, a FREE edition and a pay version. You will find that the FREE edition has a number of the items that you have mentioned above included.
SplitString(), and many others could be added. Perhaps we create a SqlClrContrib site? Where people can post their ideas to an open source project and we can add such functions?
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.