His military duties as commander of the principal national army did not prevent Espartero from showing for the first time his political ambition. He displayed such radical and reformist inclinations that he became popular among the lower and middle classes, which popularity lasted more than a quarter of a century; during this time the Progressivists, Democrats and advanced Liberals always considered him as an adviser. In November 1836 he again forced the Carlists to end the siege of Bilbao. His troops included the British Legion commanded by Sir George de Lacy Evans. This success turned the war against Carlos, who vainly attempted a raid towards Madrid, but was defeated in the Battle of Aranzueque. Meanwhile, on 18 June 1837 he was nominated for the first time as the 7th Premier of Spain, until 18 August 1837.
