The connection that made by author was that there was a contradiction between the ideals in American society and the way that the racial minorities were treated.
The connection which was made by the author between World War II and the civil rights movement was that during World War II, the fight against fascism illustrated the contradictions between the ideal of Democracy in America and how racial minorities were treated.
America is known to be a country for everyone and according to the principles in their democracy, there's freedom for everyone living in the society but despite this, the minorities were not treated well and were being used as slaves which were against the democracy that's being preached in America.
The boy influences the crystal merchant by following his or her dreams the boy is even teaching him andalusia and sheperding, notice how he also tells the merchant take a chance and seize the opportunity.
