Learning Linux and choosing best Linux for Altera Arria V SoC Kit

Hello all,
Thanks to Rocketboards for providing such a great platform for learning!

I am new to Linux operating system. I want to learn it and use it for Altera Arria V SoC Kit (https://www.altera.com/products/boards_and_kits/dev-kits/altera/kit-arria-v-soc.html).

Please suggest me how to start. Where can I learn basic Linux and start porting the Linux OS to Arria V SoC kit? How should I choose the best Linux OS for this kit?

Thank you all in advance.

Regards