Quote Originally Posted by DrAssenov View Post
It all ended when Shinra eventually brought in Sephiroth.

The world, through tons of pro-Shinra propaganda, viewed Sephiroth as a hero, inspiring tons of young men to sign up for SOLDIER. This included Zack and Cloud.
The war lasted longer than the moment when Sephiroth appeared on the battle field like it is shown in Crisis Core as well, but it was just a matter of time, yes. It was a very long war. Typically human. Bow to the system or suffer the consequences.