You can install Windows 7 if your PC is capable of running it, go here and check W7 upgrade adviser - http://windows.microsoft.com/en-gb/windo... Yes you can use your friends disc to install W7 but not use his CD Key unless it is no longer active, doing so contravenes the terms and conditions of the EULA (End User Licence Agreement) Would it delete your current OS, yes it would. The alternative is clear a partition of at least 40Gb, boot from the W7 DVD and install W7 to the 2nd partition (you created) or a second (clean) drive if there is one, you can then dual boot, this means at the beginning when the PC starts you get to choose which OS you want to use.
It all depends if your computer/laptop can handle Windows 7, You can download the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor to check this on the Windows website. If you do not know what you are doing then I wouldn't recommend uninstalling your current OS and replacing it unless you are certain your current workstation will handle Windows 7.
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.