Really, 18th century comparison? Is that relevant? Trying to compare Nova Scotia with Switzerland and Norway is way off. They didn't escape the EU "tentacle" whatever that means.  While the countries are not part of the EU they are part of the customs union and pay into EU budget. Both have implemented all EU regulations and the four freedoms while they have absolutely no say in making the EU rules.  In other words they are like EU members without any voting rights. However they are very developed, very educated, and rich that go beyond money.  They live next to EU and their economies depend on EU trade.  Just like Canada lives next to USA and we depend on that.