Answer:
If I were to time travel to any time period, I'd travel to the late 1700's. Around this time was the American Revolution, where people fought for their freedom in heroic ways. Later, it was the culmination of a new nation. The beginnings of government. To be present in this time would be amazing; to see the soldiers go to war, to see the culture in this time, to see a country slowly develop and form. That is why I would go to the late 1700's. I know you wanted 500 words but I hope this helped you get started :)