Some sources describe him as a Basche-Chaouch,[1] (which would explain the name) a title usually held by Kouloughlis, which would mean that he was most likely of mixed Algerian-Turkish descent, albeit it's up for debate.

The insurrections which, for more than twenty years, had bloodied the city of Algiers, had brought all sorts of brigands; Ali administered severe justice, and, in the first months of his reign, executed more than 1500 janissaries; it was to these necessary rigors that he owed his ability to impose order and govern in peace.

[1] During the first three years of his reign, Ali was sued for peace by the Dutch, the Sicilians, the English and the Empire; everyone made enormous presents to obtain it.

[11] In 1716, war was declared against him again as the Swedes and Danes were no happier, and the corso received a great boost, because the dey, instructed by the example of his predecessors, saw that this was the only way to ensure the pay of the militia.

European states decreed, under penalty of heavy fines, that all commercial ships only leave port well armed with cannons, manned by a crew capable of usefully defending itself.