> I get this strange feeling that I have slowly over the past decade and a half or so been primed in a way for what is currently unfolding...

There are millions who are in the same position as you. The figurative curtain has been lifted for anyone who has watched the information stream in from around the world for the past 30ish years. And the machine and its masters know it. Hence why we are in a literal information war. 

Information is knowledge. Knowledge is perception. Perception is reality. And controlling reality is power. So here we are all. Combatants in a war with the desired out come of control. Because the self proclaimed master of the universe have lost it. 

Those who have been watching the creep have gone through phases of emotional responses to what has transpired. So by now most are hardened and well equipped to see through the mechanics of control and dominance. 

Good luck friend.