Who was the French trader that operated along the Arkansas and Red Rivers?

The French trader who operated along the Arkansas and Red Rivers is Pierre de La Salle. He was a notable explorer known for his extensive travels in North America during the late 17th century. La Salle is best recognized for claiming the Mississippi River basin for France and establishing French presence in the region. His expeditions contributed significantly to France's exploration and trading activities, particularly along key river systems.

In contrast, Jacques Cartier primarily focused on the St. Lawrence River and Canada, rather than the southern territories that include the Arkansas and Red Rivers. La Verendrye was known for his explorations in Canada and the northern U.S. rather than along the Arkansas and Red rivers. Explorers from the Ohio Valley were not specifically known for operations along these southern waterways, as their activities tended to be more localized to the Ohio River and surrounding areas. Therefore, Pierre de La Salle is the correct and fitting figure associated with trading in the context mentioned in the question.