Meaning: The quote you provided is attributed to William Kunstler, a well-known American civil rights attorney and activist. The quote reflects a specific period in American history when the United States' military involvement in the Vietnam War extended into neighboring Cambodia. This expansion of the war, which was initially seen as a strategic move, sparked widespread protests and unrest across the country, particularly on college and university campuses.

During the late 1960s and early 1970s, the Vietnam War was a deeply divisive issue in the United States. The decision to expand military operations into Cambodia in 1970 further fueled the anti-war movement and led to a significant escalation in protests and demonstrations. Many people, including students, viewed this expansion as an unjustified and dangerous escalation of the conflict, leading to increased opposition and unrest.

Kunstler's quote specifically highlights the impact of this military action on the academic community. He describes how the incursion into Cambodia brought the colleges and universities in the United States to the brink of civil war. This characterization underscores the intensity of the response within academic institutions and the potential for widespread internal conflict.

The mention of colleges and universities being "on the verge of civil war" reflects the heightened tensions and polarization within these academic communities. The decision to move troops into Cambodia directly affected the student population, many of whom were actively involved in anti-war protests and demonstrations. The quote suggests that the situation was so volatile that it posed a serious threat to the stability of these institutions, potentially leading to significant disruptions in their normal functioning.

The phrase "Many closed down" points to the practical consequences of the unrest. In response to the growing protests and the potential for violence, some colleges and universities indeed shut their doors, temporarily suspending classes and activities. This action was a reflection of the deep impact that the events surrounding the Vietnam War had on the educational landscape of the United States during that time.

The reference to "students [being] up in arms" further emphasizes the significance of the student-led opposition to the war and the military actions in Cambodia. The phrase conveys the idea that students were actively and passionately protesting, using their voices and actions to express their dissent and frustration with the government's decisions.

Finally, Kunstler's mention of "real problems in this country" underscores the broader societal implications of the unrest on college campuses. The protests and potential disruptions within academic institutions were not isolated incidents but were part of a larger social and political upheaval that was unfolding across the United States during this period.

In conclusion, William Kunstler's quote captures the tumultuous atmosphere that characterized the response to the Vietnam War and the incursion into Cambodia. It underscores the profound impact of these events on the academic community, particularly the students, and the significant role that colleges and universities played in the broader anti-war movement. The quote serves as a reminder of a pivotal moment in American history when the consequences of military actions reverberated deeply within the fabric of society and higher education.