In fact, whether it is the people of the Steppe or the people of Yan, as long as they could live their life in peace, they would not rebel
One rebels if they have benefits but also if they have no other choice. In the case of the minorities tribe that resides on the north, it was the latter that made them to rebel
But the most combo use of nationalism in this era and even in modern era is to manufacture consent for war.
The one that has to fight for these wars are the common peasant children and common peasant fathers.
But it serves the elite interest such as gaining access to resources or securing political advantages in the capital
The emperor usually manipulate this us vs them to considlitae their power evebn more, often under the pretext of national security or unity
Of course, in this era, it is seen as just. But a ruler who truly have power over everything is not good for the common people
