1) The clip of Cordelia's Dad that I was able to hear is Tim Erikson. More info here
Cordelia's Dad has come & gone as members have gone off to further education, careers, etc. They get back together every so often.

2)The tyrant is Doris Plenn's addition. Any tyrant will do.

I was the one who suggested a Civil War connection. It was pure speculation. To me the light after any disaster, war, etc. fits. The timing suggested Civil War to me.