Silicon tracking detectors have transformed the field of particle physics over the previous four decades. Some of the device physics and historical developments are outlined here with particular emphasis on those for the LHC programme at CERN. A number of recent reviews are referenced as providing significantly greater detail than this short overview can cover. The LHC high luminosity upgrade programme (HL-LHC) is also discussed along with the associated upgrades for the four main experiments. In addition, attention is drawn to the different requirements for possible future international particle collider projects and the status of R&D towards addressing these. Finally, an example of the application of HL-LHC silicon tracking technology in the field of hadron radiotherapy is provided and possible future use of particle physics detectors currently in development is discussed.