The Elites have typically been tied to the land and people the siphon resources from, whether this is the true elites or lower down political classes. The peasants, while exploited, typically had their lot thrown in with these elites... and when push came to shove were on the same side. It's why peasants would enlist to fight for their king against a foreign king, even if they didn't like their own king all that much.

Of course, post enlightenment, the perspective makes little sense. And it's only been since the start of the 20th century that the elites weren't tied to the people they rule over. Even in the US, it's only since the 20th century that there'd actually ever be any real reason for a militia to take up arms against the government. And like the Europeans, 99% refuse.