So how exactly did this empire building affect you?
Don't forget that the European Parliament is democratically elected and the UK is one of the most powerful countries within the EU, because we have so many MEPs. The UK is one of the "emperors" - or was, until it shot itself in the foot.
I could add many other advantages to those mentioned by Welshwife, including cracking down on tax avoidance by big corporations and very wealthy individuals. The EU showed that it was more willing to do something about the situation than the UK. The UK has ultimate jurisdiction over some of the richest tax havens in the world.
Frankly, the UK will be taking back control from one organisation and handing it to big corporations, which are far less scrupulous and accountable than the EU. Corporations and individuals are far less wary of the UK, which is why some of them supported Leave.
I would genuinely be interested to know in what ways people think leaving the EU will benefit the vast majority of people. It's all very well moaning about something, but jumping ship is foolish if the alternatives aren't even being considered.