The play, "Hamilton," opened on Broadway in New York City, New York, USA on 17 September 1917, closing in November 1917 after 80 performances. The opening night cast included George Arliss, who originated his movie role as Alexander Hamilton, Florence Arliss (Arliss' real life wife) as Betsy Hamilton, and Jeanne Eagels as Mrs. Reynolds.
Although the American Film Institute Catalog of Feature Films 1931-1940 lists Charles Middleton for the role of "Chief Justice John Jay," he appears early in the film, with dialogue, as a rabble rousing townsman.
Although Alexander Hamilton was in his 30s during the events depicted and 47-49 years old when he died, George Arliss was 63 when the film was released.
Senator Roberts accuses Reynolds of being a scoundrel who will do anything for a $10 bill. This is an in-joke as Alexander Hamilton's portrait eventually appeared on the $10 bill in 1928.
According to Motion Picture Herald, the fictional character of "Senator Roberts" was added to the screenplay in order to placate both Democratic and Republican party leaders, who expressed concern over the way their parties were to be depicted.